Local industry identity emerges to lead Australia-Pacific Mercedes-Benz bus and coach business
By David Goeldner | March 20, 2013
After two years in the role, Daimler executive Jan Moreth has vacated the general manager’s position at Mercedes-Benz bus and coach’s Melbourne operation.
Moreth returned to Europe in February to take up a senior position with parent company Daimler, and has been replaced in Melbourne by former Sigma Coachair executive Justin Whitford (pictured).
Daimler Commercial Vehicles Australia-Pacific Managing Director Kolja Rebstock says Whitford brings a wealth of bus industry experience to Mercedes-Benz following a three year international position with Sigma Coachair – a leading air-conditioning engineering and manufacturing firm.
“Justin has commenced his role within Mercedes-Benz and will take on responsibility for the coordination and management of Mercedes-Benz Bus and Coach Australia-Pacific,” Rebstock says.
Whitford says he is ‘excited’ considering the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead with Mercedes-Benz.
He says Mercedes-Benz’s bus and coach division in Australia needs to better understand its customers and drive resources towards the best service model achievable.
“I’ll be reviewing our short and long term objectives with the team to ensure that our business strategy is focused towards fulfilling the partnerships that we hold with our customers and their requirements,” Whitford says.
“I see this as an opportunity to redefine the industry.”
Among Whitford’s plans is to incorporate Mercedes-Benz technology from European buses and coaches in the Australian products as standard.
“Particularly in terms of technological enhancements to safety,” he says.
Mercedes-Benz Bus and Coach National Sales Manager Grant Simmonds will continue to work alongside the new Australia-Pacific general manager.